RPIM-RITSS Method for Large Deformation Analysis Using ABAQUS

Abstract

In the standard Lagrangian finite-element framework, the “remeshing and interpolation technique with the small strain” (RITSS) method has been applied increasingly in geotechnical engineering. However, the mapping algorithm of the RITSS method suffers from either the onerous division of unique element, such as the modified unique element divisional method, or frequent mapping of the stress and other information between integration points and nodes, resulting in the loss of precision, such as superconvergent patch recovery (SPR) and recovery by equilibration of patches. In this study, within the original RITSS, the radial point interpolation method (RPIM) mapping algorithm is implemented to improve accuracy and convenience. The RPIM-RITSS method is integrated into the ABAQUS (6.14) commercial software package. With a master Python script, the whole analysis process is performed automatically and continuously without any intervention from the user. The efficiency and robustness of the RPIM-RITSS method are verified through three numerical examples: penetration of the strip footing, the pullout and the rotation of the anchor plate, and deep penetration of the T-Bar. Consequently, the RPIM-RITSS method is an alternative, powerful, and easily extensible way to tackle large deformation problems in geotechnical engineering.